Full Title Name: Table of Enforcement Powers Granted to Humane Societies by State

This table outlines the powers granted to agents of humane societies in some states to enforce anti-cruelty statutes. Such powers include serving search warrants, seizing animals, and arresting offenders. Some states require that humane officers complete training and instruction related to investigating animal cruelty.

Approximately 34 states have granted agents of humane societies the power to enforce anti-cruelty statutes. Humane officers’ enforcement powers vary by state, but include serving search warrants, seizing animals, and arresting offenders. Other powers include carrying firearms, issuing citations, seizing equipment used in animal-fighting, summoning by-standers to their aid, etc. Some states require that humane officers complete training and instruction in investigating animal cruelty cases, animal care and husbandry, laws and regulations related to animals, and weapons training. In other states, the humane officers’ powers are more limited, and they must act in concert with law enforcement officers to address violations of animal cruelty laws.

May require the sheriff of any county, the constable of any township, the marshal or a policeman of any municipal corporation, or any agent of such a society, to take possession of any animal cruelly treated, and deliver such animal to the proper officers of the society

May arrest any person violating a law protecting persons or animals or preventing acts of cruelty thereto

May require the sheriff of any county, the constable of any township, the marshal or a policeman of any municipal corporation, or any agent of such a society, to arrest any person found violating the laws in relation to cruelty to persons or animals

Minimum of 20 hours of training in investigation and prosecution of cruelty to and neglect of animals, including animal husbandry practices

May interfere to prevent the perpetration of any act of cruelty to animals in his presence